New James Bond Adventure for Children by MW Craven Set for 2026 Release

In a significant development for the literary world, Ian Fleming Publications has announced the upcoming release of a new children's adventure in the iconic James Bond series, titled *James Bond and the Secret Agent Academy*. Penned by bestselling crime author MW Craven, this book is set to launch in June 2026, targeting readers aged eight to twelve. The announcement was made on June 9, 2025, amidst growing concerns regarding declining reading habits among children, as highlighted by research from the National Literacy Trust.

The publishing director, Simon Ward, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights in a two-book deal from Viola Hayden and Ciara Finan at Curtis Brown, representing Ian Fleming Publications Ltd, alongside David Headley at the DHH Literary Agency, who represents Craven. This new series introduces a fresh narrative where the legendary secret agent, James Bond, transitions from espionage to education, mentoring a new generation of aspiring young agents at the Secret Agent Academy.

"While writing a middle-grade book that features James Bond training the secret agents of tomorrow is undoubtedly an extraordinary honour, it also comes with a daunting responsibility," Craven remarked. He emphasized the importance of introducing Ian Fleming’s beloved character to a new audience while considering the current trends in children's reading. The National Literacy Trust's recent findings indicate that reading for pleasure among children has reached a 20-year low, making the need for engaging literature more critical than ever.

Amanda Douglas, Managing Director at Ian Fleming Publications, expressed her enthusiasm for the new direction of the series, which aims to present Bond through the eyes of children. "This series represents a new and imaginative chapter for 007, introducing the world’s most famous secret agent to the next generation of readers," she stated. The narrative promises to retain the spirit of Bond, featuring original characters and an engaging plot.

Ward added, "We are always looking for stories we want to read: stories that encapsulate everything we love from Ian Fleming’s legendary Bond adventures but with new characters and settings that Ian would approve of. This is a James Bond story unlike any other we’ve done."

The partnership between Craven's storytelling and the iconic Bond franchise is expected to inspire younger readers to develop a love for literature. As David Headley noted, the combination of Craven’s unique voice and Bond’s legendary status aims to draw children into exciting plots filled with bravery and humor.

The forthcoming *James Bond and the Secret Agent Academy* could potentially revitalize interest in reading among younger audiences, making it a noteworthy entry in children's literature. As the launch approaches, the publishing team plans a dynamic marketing and publicity campaign to maximize visibility and engagement.

This initiative reflects a broader trend in the publishing industry to adapt classic characters for younger generations, ensuring their relevance and continued popularity in today’s complex digital landscape. As the literary world eagerly anticipates this new chapter for Bond, it remains to be seen how young readers will respond to the adventures of 007 in a school setting, where the stakes may be lower, but the excitement is sure to remain high. The implications of this series could reverberate throughout children's publishing, possibly setting a precedent for future adaptations of beloved characters in accessible formats for young readers.